Community Read 2011

This year's community read selection is Three Cups of Tea, by Greg Mortenson and David Oliver Relin.

There will be a book discussion in the community room on April 11 at 6:30 PM. Use our online catalog, call or visit the library to borrow a copy. Audio versions are also available.

New Children's Historical Fiction

Audio Book:
In post WWII Russia, one boy dares to save an entire race of outlawed dogs - the German shepherd!
World War II has just ended when thirteen-year-old Mikhail finds a dying man and his German shepherd, Zasha, in the woods. It's dangerous - some say traitorous - to own a German dog after Germany attacked Russia, so Mikhail must keep Zasha a secret to keep her alive. Grades 4-7.

From the renewed Dear America series of historical-fiction diaries, this one belongs to 11-year-old Lydia Pierce. Lydia’s world turns upside down in 1918, when influenza kills her parents and baby sister. With no one left to care for her and her brother, they are taken to live with the Shakers in Maines Sabbathday Lake community. Since she has already lost so much, Lydia finds it hard to give up her favorite book and her grandmother’s ring as communal property, but little by little, she adapts to her new home. Lowry writes with simplicity and sensitivity, bringing Lydia’s world to life through concrete details and making the child’s resilience entirely believable. Unlike books in the original series, this one has the author’s name on the cover, though like the earlier ones, it extends the fiction in an epilogue summarizing Lydia’s later life. The back matter also includes historical notes on the influenza of 1918 and the Shakers, a section of related photos, and a note on the author, including comments on her research. A fine addition. Grades 4-7.

Twelve-year-old Will wants to be a drummer in the Union army, but he's stuck far from the fighting in his sleepy hometown of Gettysburg, Pennsylvania. Then the Union and Confederate armies converge on Gettysburg, and suddenly Will and his family are caught up in the battle.

From delivering important messages and helping the wounded to even saving a young soldier's life, Will takes readers on a firsthand trip through one of the Civil War's most significant battles. Grades 4-7.

Because his parents run the Boston tavern where British officers are staying, 12-year-old Daniel must be careful not to divulge his family’s allegiance to the Sons of Liberty. His father joins the New England army, leaving Daniel to help at the tavern and gather what information he can. Early in the story, Daniel is too frightened to cross the British in any way, but he slowly becomes more resolute and determined, and in the end, he risks his life to reveal a traitor to General Washington. Set in 1776, this historical novel weaves actual people, places, and events of the Siege of Boston into an engaging fictional narrative. Back matter includes a historical note, a time line, a glossary, a list of historical characters, and a bibliography of recommended reading. A good beginning for the Boys of Wartime series. Grades 4-7.

Lego Success!

Kids of all ages had a great time at our second Lego day. Visit the library soon to see their creations on display. Thank you to Chrissy and Zachary Nelson for generously sharing your Legos!
Visit the library soon to see their creations on display.

Check back for information about another Lego day during spring break in April.

Books & Bites in February

Books & Bites will meet Thursday, February 24, 12:00-1:00 PM. Program is for children grades 4-6, who must sign up in advance by calling or visiting the library.

Lego Day

Looking for something FUN and FREE to do over February break?

Wednesday, February 23
1:00pm - 3:00pm

Kids can build a masterpiece using Legos we provide or you may bring yours. Build your own new creations or work with your friends for the most amazing things you can make from your imagination. Snack provided.

Marion Community Room

With its handicap accessibility, full kitchen, restroom, and ability to accommodate up to 50 people our community room is an excellent resource for our community!

Here is the basic information:

Charges: There is no charge for use of meeting room by governmental agencies, by nonprofit community groups or by groups presenting programs in which the library is a sponsor or cooperating agency. All others will be charged $20 for each reservation. A deposit of $50 will be charged to ensure that the room is cleaned and returned to its original condition after use. The deposit will be returned after inspection.

Application: Groups interested in use of the Marion community room must first fill out an application for use, which can obtained at the library desk. Once the application is approved and deposit received, the meeting date will be placed on the meeting room calendar.

Policy: The Town of Marion and the Library Board of Trustees encourages the widest possible use of the room as long as it does not interfere with normal functions of the library. Programs involving the sale, advertising and promotion of commercial products, services or programs, regardless of purpose are prohibited, except those covered by the library policy. No admission fees or registrations fees, donations or money solicitation may be sought from attendees unless the library co-sponsors the program.

For complete information regarding policies, rules and regulations, please visit or call the library at 315-926-4933.

Jeans For Teens

Thank you to those who donated! Marion GS troop #327 was the largest contributing group at Eastview Mall with 58 pairs of jeans. Way to go, girls!

The library is helping Marion Senior Girl Scout Troop #327  take action on teen homelessness with Teens For Jeans. Donate your gently worn jeans now through Feb 13.

Did you know 1 in 3 homeless people are under 18? Let’s Do Something! Click --> HERE <-- for more info.